Heading into bear country can seem frightening . . . but it doesn't have to be. This handy, packable guide will show you preventive measures that can reduce your chances of coming across a bear and techniques that can minimize your risk of being injured. With Bear Aware you'll learn how to safely hike and camp in bear country, store food to keep campsites bear free, and handle close encounters. The book also offers special precautions for hunters, anglers, mountain bikers, trail runners, outfitters, photographers, vacationers, and cabin owners, and provides specific regulations for the national parks.This guide contains advice on:Bear Mythology--Separating Fact from FictionHiking in Bear CountryCamping in Bear CountrySpecial Regulations in National ParksSpecial Precautions for WomenSpecial Precautions for Hunters, Anglers and Outfitters, Mountain Bikers, and PhotographersHow to Handle Close EncountersLiving or Vacationing in Bear Country Working in Bear CountryInstead of taking fear with you, take Bear Aware.[quote from book]"Knowledge is the best defense against bears. Outdoors people who know about bears have already taken the vital first step. They know what kind of equipment to bring, how to set up camp, when and where to hike and be more careful, and which bear and human behaviors increase the chance of an encounter. And the well informed can more easily deal with any encounter."